June 1, 2010

Gov. Nixon appoints Kenneth Suelthaus of St. Louis to Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Gov. Jay Nixon today announced the appointment of Kenneth H. Suelthaus of St. Louis to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission. Suelthaus (R) is an attorney with the law firm of Polsinelli Shughart PC and has more than 40 years experience in corporate law. Suelthaus will take his place on the six-member commission immediately; the appointment will be subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate.

"Ken Suelthaus brings to the commission an experienced background and perspective from the business community," Gov. Nixon said. "That experience will enable him to effectively serve the people of Missouri on the Highways and Transportation Commission as it meets the state's transportation needs in the coming years."

Suelthaus holds a bachelor's degree in engineering from the University of Michigan and a law degree from the University of Missouri School of Law. He was editor in chief of the Missouri Law Review and graduated first in his law school class. As vice chairman of the Polsinelli Shughart law firm, Suelthaus has guided the acquisition, disposition and reorganization of a variety of business entities, including banks and bank holding companies. He is active in several area civic and charitable organizations.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission works to preserve, enhance, and support the state's transportation system. The commission makes and tracks transportation policy and has authority over all state transportation programs and facilities, as provided by law, including bridges, highways, aviation, railroads, public transportation, ports, and waterborne commerce. Not more than three members of the commission can be of the same political party.

Suelthaus replaces Duane Michie, of Hayti, on the commission. The Governor has appointed Suelthaus for a term that will expire March 1, 2015.